Johnson Controls, a global multi-industrial company, recently presented Ken Webb, Johnstone Supply brand manager, with the company’s Distinguished Technical Service Lifetime Achievement Award on Oct.15 during the Coleman service managers meeting in St. Louis.
Presented on behalf of the Johnson Controls-Unitary Products Technical Group, the award recognizes individuals who have provided an exemplary level of technical support to customers within the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) industry. This is the 11th time Johnson Controls has presented the award since 1995.
David Negrey, director of technical services and application engineering, Johnson Controls-Unitary Products, presented the award to Webb. “This award honors a career that spans more than 40 years in the HVAC industry,” Negrey said. “During that time, Ken has provided outstanding technical support and training to multiple brand customers. He is also widely regarded for his ability and willingness to communicate the field related issues of his customers back to factory personnel, demonstrating his commitment to customer service in the process.”
Webb’s career in the HVAC industry began in 1961 when he joined American Furnace Company (AFCO) as a stock room clerk and mail room employee. In 1963, he enrolled in HVAC courses at Ranken Technical College and soon moved to AFCO’s factory service department. Ten years later, he became chief product application engineer, responding to dealer service inquiries, producing field bulletins and conducting training programs throughout the United States and Canada.
During this time, Webb continued his education, earning a bachelor’s degree from St. Louis University and a master’s degree in marketing from Webster University. He became branch service manager for York International in 1992 before joining Johnstone Supply in 2003 as brand manager, with responsibility for Coleman service, marketing assistance, and training.
Webb, who plans to retire January, 31, 2009, sees the award as one of the highlights of his career. “I was both surprised and delighted to receive this award,” he said. “I have enjoyed the opportunity to work in the HVAC industry and assume a variety of responsibilities that have enabled me to grow with the industry and provide assistance to the many contractors in the field who give a personal face to the industry.
“My most recent affiliation with Coleman, through Johnstone Supply, makes me proud of the work we all do and the energy efficient products and services we are able to provide at a time when customers are looking for affordable, sustainable solutions to their heating and cooling challenges.”
